Vegan Creamy Tomato Pasta With Herbs

Short Description

This Vegan Creamy Tomato Pasta with Herbs is a deliciously satisfying dish that combines the richness of a creamy tomato sauce with the freshness of aromatic herbs. Made entirely from plant-based ingredients, it’s a comforting and elegant meal perfect for any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and creamy texture without any dairy
• Bursting with flavor from fresh herbs like basil, rosemary, and thyme
• Quick and easy to prepare — ready in under 30 minutes
• Perfect for weeknights or dinner guests
• Completely plant-based and customizable to suit various dietary needs

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz pasta of choice (spaghetti, penne, fettuccine, or gluten-free pasta)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• ½ tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 20 fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
• ¼ tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
• ¼ tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• ½ cup cashew cream (see below)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cashew Cream:

• ½ cup raw cashew nuts
• ¼ cup water
• Juice of half a lemon
• Pinch of salt

Directions

1. Prepare the Cashew Cream: Soak cashews in boiling water for 10–15 minutes. Drain and blend with water, lemon juice, and salt until smooth. Set aside.
2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until soft. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add Tomato Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Incorporate Herbs: Add rosemary, basil, thyme, and parsley. Cook for another 5 minutes to blend flavors.
6. Stir in Cashew Cream: Pour in the cashew cream and mix until fully combined and smooth.
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add cooked pasta to the sauce. Toss gently to coat and let it heat through for 2–3 minutes.
8. Serve: Plate immediately and garnish with extra herbs if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier version
• Mix in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies
• Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free meal
• Try different herbs like oregano or tarragon for a new flavor
• Add vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast for a cheesy finish

Storage/Reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce
• The sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating

FAQs

What can I use instead of cashew cream?

You can substitute with coconut cream, almond cream, or oat-based cream alternatives.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, but reduce the quantity to one-third since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini work wonderfully.

How do I make the sauce spicier?

Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge.

What kind of pasta works best?

Any type of pasta, such as spaghetti, penne, or linguine, will work.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.

Can I freeze this dish?

The sauce can be frozen, but freezing pasta is not recommended as it may affect texture.

How do I reheat this pasta?

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a bit of water or plant milk to loosen the sauce.

Conclusion

Vegan Creamy Tomato Pasta with Herbs offers a delightful blend of comfort, flavor, and simplicity. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution or a dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers rich taste and wholesome ingredients without the need for dairy. It’s a versatile, plant-based favorite that deserves a regular spot on your table.

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